INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this bulletin is to introduce the beginner to some
basic sources and techniques for the collection of data for nominating
a historic property to the National Register of Historic Places. This
guide is to be used withNational
Register Bulletin: How to Complete the National Register Registration
Form , which explains terminology, and how the information
gathered through research is incorporated in a National Register nomination.
While the National Register lists buildings, sites, districts, structures,
and objects, this bulletin focuses on individual buildings. It may
be applicable to other resource types--especially structures--and
districts composed mainly of buildings.

Before you begin your research, contact the State
Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) of the State in which the
property is located. The State will provide you with the appropriate
forms, instructions, and guidance about the State's procedures for
nominating properties to the National Register. The SHPO will also
provide a copy of the State's inventory documentation if the property
has already been surveyed. The SHPO is an important source of information
about significant historic contexts and documentation that may be
useful to you for researching your historic property. Finally, that
office will be able to tell you if your community has a preservation
official or office that you should contact.

Additional information may be available from local landmarks and
historic district commissions, particularly if the community in which
your property is located is a Certified
Local Government (CLG). Local governments frequently collect information
about landmark properties, historic districts, and archeological sites.
If the property being researched is owned by the U.S. Government,
the Federal
Preservation Officer (FPO) should be contacted for information
as well. The SHPO can refer you to the relevant FPO for the agency
involved.